Securing Your Home Against Burglaries Is Easier Then You Think

Your home is your sanctuary and a place where you want to feel safe and can lock the troubles of the world outside of the front door. Many people are now looking for more advanced ways to protect their homes, not just while they are in but while they are away. Lots of people now travel for business and pleasure and have to leave their homes unattended for long periods of time, the installation of a home security camera system can give peace of mind that the home will be protected while you are away.

The more popular that the systems have become over time has meant that there has been an ever increasing number available on the market. With the increase in choice comes the added problem of knowing which would best meet your demands and how much security do you need to protect your home and belongings. It is possible to pickup a system that has just one camera or you can buy ones that have up to sixty four cameras, you may be requiring just a black and white camera system or full color, night vision or infra red illuminators. The choice is out there and understanding all of the technical specification can be confusing, the best way to combat this is to do some research.

Think carefully about why you are looking to protect your property and what the aims are of having the system. If you are simply installing it to act as a deterrent for the small time burglar then one or two high profile outdoor cameras could be enough to do what you want. However if you are requiring the system to protect the outside and inside of your home and the access points then you will be needing more cameras depending on the size of your property. The higher number of cameras that you attach to the system the more that you will need to spend in order to make the security effective. Remember that your security is only as good as the weakest point of the system; any loop holes can be attacked to breach the defenses.

When setting up your home security camera systems planning is the key to overall success, think about what you want to achieve first of all, draw up some diagrams of your property including the garden and look into any weak points. Once you have decided on where you need to secure then you can start looking into the different camera systems that are available and the features that can be found on them. It is possible to buy good quality cameras at very good prices today and there are many different types that can be found with lots of different features including night vision, outdoor, hidden, infra red, pan zoom functions, tilt, vandal proof, dome cameras and more. The more advanced camera systems will even text you if there is a potential security breach or you can view the camera output on your mobile phone.

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Home Security Devices for Your Home Security System

When you are selecting any home security device that forms a necessary part of the home security system you are building to protect your family and home, you should first do the needed preliminary work. You will need to identify what home security devices you require for the level of protection you want. Second, you need to know how many of each type of home security equipment will be necessary. Third, you need to be clear on any budget limitations. Quite naturally, the amount you are able to spend will affect the type of home security devices you will be using, from very simple to highly sophisticated. Another consideration is installation. Will you be installing the system yourself or having it done professionally? This can affect both the costs and type of home security device you decide to use.

Simple vibration detectors for your windows and door jam magnet detectors are basic home security devices that you will most likely install on all windows and entry doors. These may be wired or wireless detectors depending on how your full home security system is structured. Systems may also include external lighting controlled by motion detectors while inside some homes will use motion detectors for monitoring some rooms. Motion detectors can be adjusted to ignore pets or small animals but still detect any people entering a protected area.

Passive infrared detectors may be used to detect changes in ambient temperatures and then trigger an alarm when there is a significant change. Active infrared detectors use an infrared beam passing from a transmitter to a receiver which triggers when the beam is interrupted. While a relatively large area can be covered this way, the source of the beam can often be detected and it can be possible to work around this type of detector.

Another home security device is the pressure mat which triggers when it is stepped on. A variety of wired and wireless surveillance systems use either indoor or outdoor security cameras or both. Wired and wireless security cameras can be full color, black and white, low light or even use infrared for coverage in extremely dark conditions. Wireless security cameras which have integrated motion detectors can save both battery life and storage space for recordings since they only activate and transmit when motion is detected.

Another device you might want is a dialer system for alerting a call center in the event of a break-in, during medical emergency situation or even in case of a fire. This home security device allows for an automated system that can essentially monitor your home and report possible problems even when you are away so this is a piece of equipment that you may want to consider both for your safety when you are home and for your property's security when you are away.

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Wireless Home Security Cameras: Simplifying Surveillance

Recently the improvements in wireless technology have allowed its incorporation into the security industry and home security system technology. Not so long ago, connecting up a home security system was generally a messy, time consuming and often difficult task. Now, through the use of security system equipment like wireless home security cameras and a variety of wireless alarms and detectors, it has become a much simpler process which can actually be completed in a few minutes. In some circumstances, setting up four to six wireless home security cameras can be done with the video available in as little is 30 minutes.

While some cameras are completely wireless using batteries in the camera to both power the camera and a transmitter which sends the images to a receiver, another type plugs into a household outlet and sends its images over the existing household wiring to a receiver which is also connected to the household circuits and then to either a dedicated monitor/recording device or a computer via a USB port. An advantage of using wireless home security cameras that transmit through the household power lines is the reduction in interference from other wireless devices. Devices such as wireless phones and wireless home computer network connections can sometimes interfere with a transmitted signal from wireless cameras.

Depending on the particular receiver, up to 6 of these wireless home security cameras can be used with a single receiver. Additional cameras would require one or more additional receivers and available USB ports. There are two main approaches to camera installation. The 'in-your-face' approach where the cameras are overt and obvious which is based on the believe that this will stop, or deter, most criminal activity. The 'secret agent' approach hides the cameras, even building them into items like wall clocks, radios, etc. This approach is looking for proof that can be used for finding a criminal or in court or it may be used for active monitoring. Some people combine the approaches, using a mix of overt and hidden cameras.

One handy method used for storage is to save the videos from wireless home security cameras to a computer’s hard drive. Depending on the number of cameras and the whether they are motion activated, your drive size will limit the storage capacity. A large dedicated drive or a large dedicated partition should be used for the stored images. Any that need to be saved can then be transferred to a different storage media such as a compact disk, DVD or a memory stick. The images could be used in court as evidence should the need arise.

While privacy laws may limit the use of surveillance cameras, monitoring a baby's crib with wireless home security cameras will break no laws. However, you do need to be aware of potential privacy violations in other room of your home or business. Areas where household visitors, business customers, or employees have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as restrooms and dressing rooms, can generally not be put under camera surveillance.

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Wireless Surveillance Systems and Home Security

There are some basic differences among home security systems and what are usually referred to as wired or wireless surveillance systems. While wireless surveillance cameras are often a part of a full home security system, their function is slightly different. Many businesses, banks, ATMs and even public locations now have surveillance cameras installed. In some cases they are simply recorded and temporarily stored, only being looked at if there is a question of criminal activity. In other cases they are actively monitored by security personnel.

In the case of home security systems using surveillance cameras, there is often a combination of functions. They be used by residents to verify who is entering the premises or who is at the door. They may also be used for checking that all is well in various rooms inside the home. They can also be used to monitor and record activities within the home (such as a nanny or babysitter) or outside such as a handyman or caretaker. And, naturally, they can be used to record any breakins or other criminal activity.

The major advantages to going with wireless surveillance systems have to do with the ease of concealment and installation, the ability to expand a system into a full home security system, and being able to move your equipment easily. The biggest disadvantage is the need to replace batteries on a regular basis. No wireless surveillance system is going to do you any good if the batteries are dead. Wireless also means that each device must be able to transmit to a receiver through any intervening obstacles such as walls. While most transmitters should have a range of 200 to 300 feet, the range is affected by obstacles and may drop as batteries weaken.

There are different types of wireless surveillance cameras that you can choose from. Older models generally provided black and white images but newer (and sometimes more expensive) cameras provide color images. You do however need to consider the light levels your cameras will need to deal with - generally the very low lux level cameras will be black and white and if you need to cover very dark areas you will probably want infrared capability. You may several different models to cover each of your specific needs. As part of a full wireless surveillance system, each door to the outside and the approaches to the house should be covered by cameras. An ideal setup would provide full coverage of the perimeter of the house. As noted above, you may also want to have surveillance cameras within the house.

The other main components to a wireless surveillance system include door and window alarms and may also include motion detectors connected to either alarms or lights. Active infrared alarms can be used to monitor interior rooms, though the need for line-of-sight transmission and reception can be inconvenient and some such alarms may generate a visible beam which can then be avoided.

A solid, careful evaluation of your security needs will help a great deal in doing the planning for your own wired or wireless surveillance system. You will need to decide if you want to have your system professionally installed or whether you have the skills and time to handle it yourself. It may also depend on whether you are planning a standalone system or want to have a third-party monitored system. Whichever way you go, any type of home security system will enhance your safety and act as a deterrent.

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Do It Yourself Home Security Systems

In today's electronic age it is becoming simple for the handyman to work with do it yourself home security systems. Home security equipment is now widely available from a variety of sources. Through the use of wireless technology, plug-and-play home security cameras and digital video recorders, a person can actually set up a do it yourself home security system in their home or business in less than an hour. Of course, more complex systems which can include multiple door and window sensors may take a bit longer.

But - before you run out thinking you know what you are doing and start buying stuff for a weekend do it yourself home security project, you actually need to survey your house and property to determine your real needs. Particularly with security cameras you want to make sure that the placement allows full coverage of critical areas. With door and window sensors you will want to insure you can cover the entire area. With devices such as cameras, the use of motion detectors can save space on your image storage device as well as reduce playback time following an incident.

Once you have determined where you believe cameras and other devices may be needed, visit the online sites of companies to determine the types of do it yourself home security devices that are available. You may find that by using wide-angle lenses you can reduce the number of cameras needed for close-up surveillance. Additionally, for faster identification of potential problems, longer lenses can be placed for views of areas further away from the building. Where possible it may be better to avoid using panning cameras since they could leave areas uncovered at times. And they also have more parts that can potentially fail.

For most people the best solution is probably to purchase an expandable diy home security system with the basics you want for your project. Additional components to expand the capabilities of any such security system must be easily available, so you should look for a system that uses established standards and can be connected to a variety of brands of additional equipment. Since it is unlikely that a kit home security system has exactly what you'll need for your home, be sure to get any additional pieces you may need.

Have Everything Handy Before You Start Your Project

When you think you are ready to begin your do it yourself home security project, double check that everything you need is on hand. There is nothing worse than being on the roof installing a camera and finding out you are short of cable connectors. You will have to climb back down the ladder, head to the store and, if it is open, buy what you need and then head back up the ladder. It is better to inventory your equipment and supplies at the beginning of the project than have to stop in the middle.

Make sure you have a checklist of exactly what needs to be installed, where, and in what order. If you decided on a wired system, better make sure you have extra wire and connectors. Be systematic and work through your checklist. Test each step as you finish before you check it off. If you are installing cameras, then, unless you have access to a battery operated television with which to view the images from the camera, you will need help lining up the cameras used for your do it yourself home security system. While you adjust the views from the cameras, have your helper watch the video screen to make sure the image received catches the area needed and that the images are in focus. Motion sensors may also require adjustment. Having every stray cat or squirrel triggering your motion sensors and turning on the outside lights gets old fast.

When you've completed your do it yourself home security system, make sure to run a series of tests on all the components before you congratulate yourself. Once you've verified that everything is working the way it should, you can relax with the assurance that your home security system is on the job protecting your family and your property.

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Outdoor Wireless Security Camera - What You Need to Know

The major advantage of using an outdoor wireless security camera is that the lack of wiring makes it simpler to do a good job concealing the camera for maximum usefulness. In some installations, hidden wireless security cameras in walls or in a ceiling act as a backup to visible cameras which could be disabled. Such hidden backups prove their worth by making available information about who has committed a crime, even when any visible security cameras have been disabled.

It is quite normal for outdoor wireless security cameras to be powered by batteries. This means that their time of continuous surveillance operation is limited. In deciding what type of outdoor security cameras to use, you need to weigh battery life against the ease of concealment and flexibility of placement that a wireless camera offers. It may also be difficult to provide power connections in many outdoor locations so the use of battery may be necessary. Using motion sensor activated cameras will help save on power usage by reducing the time the cameras are operating.

Next, before choosing your outdoor wireless security camera, you need to identify your specific needs and do some research to find a system that fits. Some of these systems may not be capable of operating under certain weather conditions or for extended periods of time, so your requirements are important in case you need specific specialized designs or weather protection.

In addition, you also need to have adequate lighting for the outdoor wireless security camera to work efficiently. A camera's lux rating is a measure of its ability to function under variable lighting. So, when the lux rating is low, the camera will need less light to provide useful images. If you are planning on using an outdoor wireless security camera where there is little light , you need to choose the camera with the absolute lowest lux rating. If there is essentially no light and the lowest lux rating is not sufficient for acceptable images, your best option is an outdoor wireless security camera that works in the infra-red and which will thus provide adequate quality images for your security purposes.

Overall there are a number of advantages to using an outdoor wireless security camera, but the major drawback is the use of battery power and the need to replace batteries regularly. On the one hand, batteries mean that the wireless system will continue to operate and protect you even if power to the home fails or has been cut, but you will have to keep careful track of battery levels and make sure you replace them as needed.

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A Wireless Home Security Alarm System can be Installed Easily

Depending on a house's style and size, a home security alarm system could be quickly installed using the older wired security devices. However, in many homes using a wireless home security alarm system will make installation much simpler. Installation of a wired home security system requires drilling holes and pulling wires through walls or into basement and attic areas. That can be difficult, time consuming and dirty work. Typically, the installation of this type of system is better left to the professional while a wireless home security alarm system can normally be done by the homeowner with little effort.

Unlike wired systems, the components of a wireless home security alarm system can be easily moved from one location to another to provide protection where it is needed without messing with wiring. Naturally, adding on to this type of system is also easy although every receiver will have limitations on how many devices it can handle effectively. Staying under the maximum number of supported devices will insure that your security system functions properly.

Every device which is connected to your wireless home security alarm system has a built in transmitter which sends a wireless signal to the receiver. In the case of the less expensive systems, the receiver will simply sound the alarm when a device is activated. More costly setups will not only sound the alarm, but also indicate which device caused it to activate. This can be a most helpful feature when you're troubleshooting a false alarm or want to quickly identify where the potential danger is.

Wireless Systems Have Some Limitations

While the ease of installation makes a wireless home security alarm system an attractive option, there are some disadvantages. Since the transmitters used in wireless devices operate on batteries, you need to monitor the batteries charge and they will need to be replaced regularly. With cameras, choosing motion sensor cameras can save power when the cameras are not operating, but the batteries will still drain periodically and need to be changed. One reason why close monitoring of battery status is important is because as the battery weakens, the strength of the transmitted signal falls and it may not trigger the receiver or could lead to a false alarm.

The construction of your home can also limit the distance a signal travels. While most wireless home security alarm system devices will send out a signal reaching 200 to 300 feet, wood, brick and metal walls can weaken the signal strength substantially. With high quality, thick walls - particularly if there is much intervening metal, signal strength could be cut in half, or more. The unit may still function properly, but if the signal cannot reach the receiver, then obviously the alarm is not going to work. The location of the receiving unit should generally be in a location which minimizes the distances to all the transmitters. 

Testing can help you determine if there are any potential problems with signal loss. Be sure to continue your testing through at least the first set of batteries so that you can catch any signal loss that occurs as battery strength diminishes.

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